Farming full-time for income
Updated Aug 17, 2025
Seeking
- 11-50 Total acres
- 6-10 Acres of cropland or tillable land
- 6-10 Acres of pasture
- 6-10 Acres of hayland
Desired locations
Seeking land to grow clean chemical free produce and flowers using compost and low till soil building methods.
Plan
I'm in the early stages of building a small-scale farm focused on clean chemical free produce and flowers. While not certified organic, I do follow organic principles-no synthetic chemicals, no tilling and a strong emphasis on soil health through compost and natural amendments. I plan to grow seasonal vegetables, cut flowers, and bulbs for local markets. A greenhouse will be used for seed starting and early crop production. My long-term vision includes expanding into community education, on farm events and value-added products like soap and natural cleaners made on site. I'm seeking land where I can grow sustainably and build something meaningful from the ground up.
Desired infrastructure
Equipment and infrastructure details
Preferred infrastructure includes a greenhouse for seed starting and season extension, composting area and irrigation system. I'd like raised bed or no till rows, shaded workspaces and cold storage for harvest. A small on site kitchen for making soaps and value added products is also important. Outdoor space for workshops, educational gatherings and a small pavilion or classroom will support community programs. Long-term, I'd like to add rainwater collection, solar power and areas for photography or agritourism.
Preferred type of opportunity
Opportunity details
I'm seeking an opportunity that allows me to establish long-term roots while building a sustainable community focused farm. A lease with option to buy or owner-financed sale would allow me to invest in the land, soil, and infrastructure while growing the operation. I'm open to short-term lease options to prove viability and stewardship. Employment with transfer is also of interest, especially if it involves learning from an experienced grower and continuing the legacy of a farm aligned with my values in education, clean growing and regenerative practices.
Desired farming practices
Practices details
My growing methods are rooted in stewardship and sustainability. I avoid all synthetic chemicals and instead build healthy soil with compost, cover crops and natural amendments. I practice low-to-no till to protect soil structure and microbial life. While not certified organic, I align with organic principles and regenerative practices. I'm focused on producing clean, nutrient-rich vegetables and flowers in a way that supports pollinators, conserves water and leaves the land better than I found it.
Production goals
Goals details
I use sustainable chemical free methods focused on building healthy soil through compost, cover crops and low to no till practices. I grow vegetables, cut flowers and bulbs with plans for a greenhouse to support seedling sales and transplant production. My long-term goal is to create a regenerative farm that feeds community and serves as an educational hub, offering workshops, field trips and hands-on-learning about growing food, soil care and sustainable living.
Farm experience
Years of experience
32 total years of experience
12 years employed as a worker (non-manager)
8 years as a manager
Education, training, and employment experience
Experience details
I was born and raised on a Black Angus farm where we also grew corn, hay and oats. My early involvement in agriculture was shaped by my hands-on experience and participation in 4-H and FFA, with a focus on livestock. I later owned and operated my own greenhouse business for six years, maintaining an acre-sized garden and a small orchard. I sold produce, flowers and plants at local farmers markets during that time. In addition to my practical experience, I am an OSU Master Gardener, which has further strengthened my knowledge in horticulture, sustainable growing practices and community education. My background blends lifelong agricultural experience with formal training and entrepreneurship.